Does Theo Hernández play today? France vs Senegal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup By Janderson Luiz
3 min read
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This Tuesday (16), Theo Hernández experiences a special moment in France’s debut at the 2026 World Cup. The left-back, now at Al Hilal, takes to the field against Senegal in the first round of Group I, at the MetLife Stadium, in East Rutherford, in the United States, with the mission of balancing defense and attack on the left flank and helping the team win the three points.
At 28 years old, Hernández has established himself as one of the most attacking full-backs in the world. After a remarkable spell at Milan, where he became the defender with the most goals in the club’s history, he transferred to Al Hilal in July 2025 and maintained a high level in the Saudi Pro League. His speed, crossing and ability to reach the baseline are important weapons in Didier Deschamps’ scheme.
Hernández, the French left-hand engine
France arrives at the World Cup as one of the main favorites for the title, occupying an elite position in the FIFA rankings. With Hernández on the left flank, alongside Jules Koundé on the right and central defenders such as William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano, the team has depth and quick transition. In attack, Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise promise to decide, but the left-back’s support is essential to create numerical superiority.
On the Senegalese side, Pape Thiaw should use Édouard Mendy in goal and Kalidou Koulibaly in defense. Senegal, 15th in the ranking, dreams of repeating the feat of 2002, when they beat France 1-0 in the opening of the Korea and Japan Cup, with a goal from Papa Bouba Diop. The Lions of Teranga have Sadio Mané and Nicolas Jackson in charge of the attack.
Versatility and historical reunion
The confrontation 24 years later brings strong symbolism. Hernández, an important player in the Qualifiers with contributions in attack and defense, now has the chance to shine in his World Cup and explore the flank against the Senegalese markings. His presence gives the team progression options, especially in transitions. Referee Alireza Faghani commands the duel, which tends to be intense.
Probable France lineup: Maignan; Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernández; Tchouaméni, Rabiot; Olise, Dembélé, Doué; Mbappe. Senegal must come with Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhaté; and strikers like Mané and Jackson.
What’s at stake in Group I
A victory for France practically guarantees a good path to qualifying, given the quality of the squad. For Hernández, the game is an opportunity to start the tournament with a complete performance, combining marking and creation. The stadium should receive a large audience, with mixed fans.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, the broadcast is from SBT on an open signal, with options on Globoplay and other platforms. The ball rolls at 4pm (Brasília time).
France enters as favorite, but history warns of the Senegalese danger. Theo Hernández and the French left side could be decisive in opening the way to victory.
